Background of Research Area

The East African Rift System (EARS) has intrigued scientists for decades as it is the archetype of a continental rift and is believed to be the cradle of humankind. However, our current understanding of this geological feature is still clouded with mystery. The western branch of the East African Rift System, which is split into several 100 to 300km segments consists of high rift flanks and deep lakes as well as several volcanoes. The Albertine rift system represents the northernmost part of the western branch and is situated in the west of Uganda at the border to the Democratic Republic of Congo. It consists of the lake Albert rift in the north and the lake Edward rift in the south with the Virunga volcanoes situated just south of lake Edward and the 5000m high Rwenzori mountains with smaller volcanic fields on the eastern flank located between lakes Edward and George.

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The East African Rift System represents one of the most variable environments on Earth being an area of active tectonics, dynamic topography with deep lakes, high mountains and active volcanoes. The variability of this changing landscape, its local climate and its richness in natural resources poses opportunities as well as challenges for local communities and consequently regional and global interests. In Uganda, large hydrocarbon resources in lake Albert, gold and copper mining in the Rwenzori mountains and around the rift, as well as potential for geothermal and hydroelectric power have increased opportunities but also stress on local communities. Mine drainage, landslides and floods in and around the steep Rwenzori mountains pose environmental challenges, and new infrastructure through better roads lead to an increase of appropriation, exacerbating socio-ecological issues on national and international levels. Climate change leads to equatorial glacier retreat on top of the mountains and competition between globally linked versus local tour operators in the park increase challenges for local communities that rely strongly on tourism.

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